M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have surrounded Goma, capital of eastern DRC, capturing Saké, the last major military position nearby. This escalation revives tensions from previous conflicts, with significant humanitarian implications for the densely populated city. Meanwhile, peace talks remain stalled, complicating the security dynamics in the region.
In a significant escalation of ongoing conflicts between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwanda, have surrounded the strategic city of Goma. On Thursday morning, these rebels successfully captured Saké, the last major stronghold before Goma, prompting a rapid withdrawal of Congolese military forces. This development marks a critical moment in a conflict that has impacted the region for years.
The M23 group had previously captured Goma in 2012, holding it for two weeks until international pressure compelled Rwanda to cease its support for the militia. Despite these pressures, allegations continue to surface regarding Rwanda’s financial and operational backing of the M23, which it has consistently denied. Following their previous defeat in 2013, the group fell silent until it re-emerged in late 2021, inflicting significant losses on the Congolese army amid stalled peace negotiations backed by Angola.
The humanitarian implications of this conflict are concerning, as Goma is a densely populated provincial capital housing over two million residents. The strategic importance of Goma cannot be overstated, as its fall would signify a major victory for the M23 rebels, potentially reshaping the power dynamics in the eastern DRC. Furthermore, tensions regarding the future role of U.N. peacekeepers in the region remain unresolved, complicating the security landscape further.
Ruth Maclean serves as the West Africa bureau chief for The Times, overseeing coverage across 25 countries, including Nigeria and the DRC. Elian Peltier is the publication’s correspondent in Dakar, Senegal, contributing insights on the complexities of the regional conflicts.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC has a long and complex history, intertwined with regional dynamics involving neighboring Rwanda. The resurgence of the M23 rebels, a group that previously gained prominence a decade ago, reflects the fragile security situation in the region. International involvement, including United Nations peacekeeping efforts, often faces significant challenges as local political landscapes evolve and peace talks falter, complicating resolution efforts.
The surrounding of Goma by M23 rebels represents a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict between the DRC and Rwanda. The capture of Saké threatens the stability of Goma, highlighting the fragility of peace in the region. With ongoing disputes about the support from Rwanda and the effectiveness of peacekeeping efforts, the situation remains precarious, and the humanitarian impact could be extensive.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
